Beyond DNA : how epigenetics is transforming our understanding of evolution / Benjamin Oldroyd
- Bib ID:
- 10010512
- Format:
- Book
- Author:
- Oldroyd, Benjamin P. (Benjamin Paul), author
- Description:
-
- Carlton, Victoria : Melbourne University Press, 2023
- ©2023
- xiv, 290 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm
- ISBN:
- 9780522878868 (paperback)
- Summary:
-
Uncover how a new approach to epigenetics affects the basis for our understanding of evolutionary biology. Beyond DNA is a journey through uncharted territory, advancing new ways of thinking about evolution and adaptation. For nearly a hundred years evolutionary biologists have understood that evolution proceeds by substituting better genes for less good ones. But consensus is growing that this is not the whole story: geneticists are now revealing that spores, sperm, pollen and ova are packed with personalised genetic information that plays an important role in offspring development and has lifelong effects. This epigenetic - or 'extra-genetic'- inheritance therefore makes significant contributions to evolutionary processes. In this highly accessible book, packed with instructive examples, Benjamin Oldroyd explains how a greater appreciation of the role of epigenetics is helping to solve a multitude of previously intractable problems in evolutionary biology - puzzles as varied as why invasive plants and animals can rapidly adapt to changes in their environment, how worker bees and queen bees can develop from the same egg, and why cancer becomes more common as we age. Beyond DNA concisely explains the mechanisms that underlie epigenetics, shows how epigenetic processes can lead to adaptation, and speculates on meaty issues such as the role that epigenetics plays in human health and happiness.
- Notes:
- Includes bibliographical references (pages 251-278) and index.
- Subject:
- Other authors/contributors:
- Hoban, Rhiarn, illustrator
- Copyright:
-
In Copyright
You may copy under some circumstances, for example you may copy a portion for research or study. Order a copy through Copies Direct to the extent allowed under fair dealing. Contact us for further information about copying.
Copyright status was determined using the following information:
- Material type:
- Literary, dramatic or musical work
- Published status:
- Published
- Publication date:
- 2023
Copyright status may not be correct if data in the record is incomplete or inaccurate. Other access conditions may also apply. For more information please see: Copyright in library collections.
Request this item
Request this item to view in the Library’s reading room.
Feedback
Similar items
- Reader's digest family health guide and medical encyclopedia. / Prepared in association with Benjamin F. Miller
- The highly approved English deaf curing doctor. [electronic resource]
- Medicine chests, with suitable directions [electronic resource] : prepared by Benjamin Webb
- [Certificate, 1862 Apr. 29, Sydney, of conformation to Benjamin Benjamin] [manuscript] / [signed by the Chief Commissioner of Insolvent Estates]
- Baby it's you [music] / words and music by Leslie and Benjamin Knauer